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LA City Council Halts Controversial Bulgari Hotel Project
Topline:
The L.A. City Council halted the luxury Bulgari Hotel project proposed for Benedict Canyon following concerns and pushback from local residents over how it might negatively affect the area.
About the vote: Council President Paul Krekorian expressed concerns about the lack of a complete environmental review process for the project, while Councilmember Monica Rodriguez cited the city's "inconsistent manner" in deciding which land use projects move forward.
The motion was brought forward by Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, who reiterated community concerns about how the project could affect things like the environment and public safety.
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"It would put local wildlife at risk by destroying habitat," Yaroslavsky said. "It would put the structural integrity of the hillside at risk by requiring intensive grading and bulldozing. And most importantly, put human lives and property at risk due to the very real wildfire threats."
Ultimately, the council voted 8-6 to halt the project.
Why now: In May, the city council was at a 7-7 standstill over whether to approve the motion that would rescind the project, pushing the matter to today's agenda.
Go deeper: LA Council punts decision on controversial Bulgari Hotel development.
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